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Five years on from the horrifying murder of Sarah Everard, our thoughts remain with her family and loved ones. Her death was a painful reminder of the fear so many women face daily, igniting a national conversation about their safety. This anniversary is a solemn moment to reflect, but also to ask what has truly changed.
Meaningful change requires more than just words; it demands deep, institutional reform to root out misogyny and rebuild broken trust in policing. We need a fundamental shift in how seriously we treat violence against women and girls. My thoughts are with everyone affected by the incident at Manchester Central Mosque yesterday evening during Ramadan prayers. Thanks to the police for their swift response. We're still waiting for all the facts to emerge but we must do more to stem the rising tide of Islamophobia
The amazing community spirit here in Tooting is one of our greatest strengths. It has been inspiring to see this in action with the wonderful success of the Safe Spaces scheme. More than 100 local businesses have now stepped up and pledged to be a welcoming refuge for anyone who needs assistance. These venues are a real credit to our community.
Seeing London’s murder rate fall to its lowest level on record is profoundly welcome news. For families across Tooting, feeling safe in our community is everything. While some talk our city down, our Mayor, Sadiq Khan, is delivering results through a public health approach to crime and tackling its root causes. This focus on prevention and early intervention is making a real difference. In my work with local police, I know this partnership is crucial. This is Labour in action: getting on with the job and building a safer city for us all. 
Today, on White Ribbon Day, I stood in solidarity with all those women and girls who have experienced vile violence and abuse.
Violence against women and girls does not occur in a vacuum; it is born out of misogyny that goes unaddressed on our streets, in workplaces, and in schools. We must all work to end this issue once and for all.
The news that two prisoners were mistakenly released from HMP Wandsworth is profoundly alarming. For residents across Tooting and the wider community, this incident raises urgent questions about public safety and undermines confidence in the justice system. Following these deeply concerning reports, I have immediately written to the Justice Secretary and the Home Secretary demanding a thorough investigation into this serious security failure. Local people deserve answers and to know what measures will be implemented to prevent this happening again.  I am delighted to hear that Lavender Hill Police Station received confirmation it would remain open for our community.
It is fantastic news for local residents, ensuring continued easy access to police services.  The smears Hillsborough victims’ families faced were unacceptable and must not happen again. It is right that the Government is taking action to ensure a similar situation cannot be repeated. The new Hillsborough Law will mean:
Today I brought together representatives from Wandsworth Council and our local police team to Tooting Bec on a walkabout followed by a roundtable meeting to discuss some of the issues facing the community. We all love the community we call home, and I want it to be better. That is why we were discussing how we can combat fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.  As the MP for Tooting, the safety of our community is my top priority. I am delighted that more than 100 local businesses have already signed up to become a Safe Space. For more details, head to the Safe Space here  |
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